Clyde Gateway is working with a range of local and national partners to respond to some of the challenges we are all facing at this uncertain time, but especially those whose circumstances were already challenging.

Many of the organisations Clyde Gateway supports are rallying around vulnerable individuals and groups, and through our funded projects are reaching people across all walks of life and in many different ways.

Organisations such as Calton Heritage and Learning Centre and LEAP are supporting vulnerable and older residents with some daily assistance such as collecting prescriptions, delivering meals and helping people access food and essentials.  Similarly, our partner Healthy n Happy Community Development Trust has established a website where Rutherglen and Cambuslang residents can match request for support to offers of support.

In terms of our education work, our early year’s project with a local nursery continues to connect families who have been remotely accessing our family support worker.  These interventions have been linked to health, wellbeing and housing.

Although most of our secondary school pupils are at home, we haven’t forgotten about them and, in particular, we are continuing to identify opportunities for school leavers wherever possible, including jobs and apprenticeships.

Our Deep End GP Money Advice project has been extended to many people who are facing financial hardship.  This project, which is normally co-located in 18 GP practices, has adapted to take referrals from individuals as well as health professionals.  The situation with sources of funding and benefits is constantly being updated and our project is able to advise people on the most current information.

Our Artist in Residence is looking at ways to extend our online presence to continue to connect communities at this time, especially linking older and younger generations together.  This follows on from a successful project called News Desk 2040, where local people discussed their fears and hopes for the future – all very relevant in current times – and have created the first of many podcasts to share.

(Update provided by Clyde Gateway)